Roald David Nelson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Roald David Nelson, age 87, on March 2, 2025. Roald died peacefully surrounded by family at Alive Hospice in Tennessee. He is survived by his wife Carolyn and their children Michael, Greg, and Jill.

Roald was born and raised on the farm in southern Indiana, then attended Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana where he met his beloved wife Carolyn. They were married for 67 wonderful years and had three children.

Roald began his career at Ross Gear in Lafayette and became one of the world's leading experts on purchasing and supply chain management. He wrote three books on the subject, was a member of the Purchasing Roundtable, and was both President and Chairman of the Institute for Supply Management. During his fifty years working in the automotive industry, Roald held many positions including Vice President of Global Purchasing for TRW Automotive, Senior Vice President at Honda, and Vice President of Worldwide Supply Management for John Deere.

Roald pursued various interests beyond work. He obtained his private pilot license and enjoyed flying airplanes. He also enjoyed woodworking, golf, and travel abroad. Roald was a great storyteller, met a variety of people from all walks of life, and had a wide circle of friends. Roald inspired loyalty and excellence in everyone he worked with, and he was known for his character and generosity as well as his accomplishments. He was warm and gracious and touched the hearts and lives of many people.

Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, 1098 Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663, www.bondmemorial.com